System, methodology, and process for wireless transmission of sensor data onboard an aircraft to a portable electronic device

ABSTRACT

Monitoring and reporting methods and apparatus include the acquisition of detailed aircraft state and systems data, analysis of the collected data, and transmission of the collected data and/or analysis of the collected data to a destination automatically via a portable electronic device which is carried onto and off of the aircraft by the pilot or another crew member. More particularly, monitoring and reporting methods and apparatus include collecting analog or digital sensor data onboard an aircraft, analyzing the data in real-time, and automatically transmitting the data and/or analysis of the data to a destination including a portable storage device such as a portable computer, electronic flight bag (EFB), or smart phone, by means such as wireless transmission, for automatic transfer to another destination when the portable computer, electronic flight bag (EFB), or smart phone is off of the aircraft.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Priority of our U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/858,444,filed 25 Jul. 2013, incorporated herein by reference, is hereby claimed.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to methods and apparatus that include theacquisition of data, analysis of the collected data, and transmission ofthe collected data and/or analysis of the collected data to adestination by means known to a practitioner of ordinary skill in theart. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods andapparatuses that include collecting analog or digital sensor dataonboard an aircraft, analyzing said data in real-time, and transmittingthe data and/or analysis of the data to a destination including aportable storage device such as a portable computer or electronic flightbag (EFB) by means including wireless transmission. The application ofthis invention includes sensor data gathered from aircraft used in fieldof avionics such as aircraft or other data collection/generating devicessuch as medical apparatus, IR (infra-red) heat sensing sensors, or otherdevices whereas the invention is used to pre-process or post-process thecollected information.

2. General Background of the Invention

In the normal operation of aircraft, pilots are typically required tocarry flight bags that contain reference material such as aircraftoperating manuals, flight-crew operating manuals, and navigationalcharts. In order to promote efficiency in flight management tasks andreduce the usage of paper, electronic information management devicessuch as EFBs have been employed by flight crews. Such EFBs allow for useof various applications including static applications such as documentviewers, flight crew operating manuals, electronic approach charts, andmultifunctional displays for systems such as navigational systems andair traffic control instructions. Furthermore, EFBs can include variousmeans of data transmission including memory stick transfer and wirelessconnectivity.

Also, aircraft in general have onboard systems which communicate inreal-time with systems on the ground during the course of a flight.Methods and apparatus directed towards such systems have patented. Forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 7,835,734 to Eckert et al. discloses an avionicssystem including a wireless router located on an aircraft and configuredto transceive wireless signals; and a processing unit located in theaircraft and configured to supply the wireless router with configurationparameters after determining it is time to connect to a ground network,the configuration parameters based on the location of the aircraft;wherein the wireless router uses the configuration parameters toestablish a wireless connection with the ground network and route datafrom at least one client application on the aircraft to at least oneground application server.

In view of the current state of art, current technologies related toelectronic flight bags and real-time communications systems have yet toaddress the need for systems and apparatus that can efficiently collect,analyze, and transmit data recorded by an aircraft's sensors or othersuch sensors carried aboard or affixed to the aircraft. Such systemscould aid commercial aircraft carriers in improving efficiency indelivery of their services to customers as applied to concerns or issuesthat include flight costs or flight crew performance. Also, such systemscould provide vital data to administrative agencies regulating the fieldof avionics for various investigatory concerns such as efficientlydetermining the cause of an aircraft failure.

The following references are incorporated herein by reference:

U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,115,656; 6,181,990; 6,477,152; 6,788,935; 7,103,456;7,149,612; 7,437,220; 7,456,756; 7,612,688; 7,769,501; 7,835,734;7,908,042; 8,121,593; 8,244,412 8,258,983; 8,316,225; 8,335,601;8,433,475; and 8,768,534.

U.S. Patent Publication Nos.: 2005/0149238; 2013/0124018; 2003/0003872;2005/0026609; 2010/0152924; 2010/0075614; 2012/0191273; 2006/0080451;and 2008/0039076; 2012/0143405; 2013/0124018; 2013/0274964.

PCT Publication Nos.: WO 2002/079918 and WO 2011/017812.

Chinese patent document CN 201408360.

Publication: Teledyne Controls Brochure: Electronic Flight Bags.

Simon Plass, Future Aeronautical Communications, InTech (2011),available athttp://www.mxmuhammad.com/papers/Future_Aeronautical_Communications.pdf.

Kim et al., A Rapid QAR. Data Acquisition and Visualization System forAircraft Engine Maintenances, Proceedings of iiWAS2009 (2009).

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The disclosed invention addresses what the current state of the art hasyet to address.

The present invention relates to methods and apparatus that include theautomatic acquisition of data, analysis of the collected data, andpreferably automatic wireless transmission of the collected data and/oranalysis of the collected data to a destination for storage or analysis,for example, from an aircraft by automatically transmitting the data toa portable device on the aircraft which is carried onto the aircraft bythe pilot or other crew member and is removed by the pilot or other crewmember when he exits the aircraft. More particularly, the presentinvention relates to methods and apparatus that include automaticallycollecting analog or digital sensor data onboard an aircraft, analyzingsaid data in real-time, and automatically transmitting the data and/oranalysis of the data to a destination including a portable storagedevice such as a portable computer or electronic flight bag (EFB) bymeans including wireless transmission.

It is sometimes best to encrypt data first, then automatically transmitto a device that will leave with the pilot. Preferably the data isautomatically wirelessly transmitted to a portable forage device in theairplane, but one could use cat-5 cable or other wire to connect to acomputer or computer-like device.

Preferably one uses a powered device that can capture the data (a devicewith logic platform versus a simple storage device, such as an SD card),whether the data comes wirelessly or through a wire, and the deviceenters the aircraft with the pilot and leaves with the pilot.

The present invention includes automatically moving a consolidatedstream of data to a device that contains logic (preferably a computer),preferably in real time or near real time. Preferably, the computer hassoftware that analyzes the data and can send messages to remotelocations or simply let those in the aircraft know that there is anissue (the computer can be programmed to detect some issues that normalflight equipment might not).

Two recent events have occurred in FAA rules to make the presentinvention possible:

(1) wifi can now be on aircraft:

(2) electronic flight bags are now allowed in the cockpit.

The hardware used in the collection, processing and transmission overwifi to the EFB or other portable electronic device can reside in theMFDAU (preferably), QAR, or any such external device that is integratedinto the system.

Preferably, the data is automatically wirelessly transmitted to the EFBor other portable electronic device carried by the pilot or other crewmember onto the aircraft, then automatically wirelessly downloaded fromthe EFB or other portable electronic device after the EFB or otherportable electronic device is removed from the aircraft by the pilot orother crew member, typically when the portable electronic deviceconnects to a network after it is removed from the aircraft. While thedata could be downloaded via for example a Cat5 cable after the portableelectronic device leaves the aircraft, wireless transmission ispreferred.

The present invention includes an apparatus comprising:

means for receiving data;

means for recording data; at least one of a Quick Access Recorder (QAR)Board and a Multi Function Data Acquisition Unit (MFDAU); and

a means of autonomous transmission of data from the QAR board or theMFDAU to a removable device in an aircraft which can retransmit the dataautonomously when removed from the aircraft,

wherein the data comprises:

data acquired from a Cockpit Voice and Video Recorder (CV2R) Ethernetfeed;

data from a Multi Function Data Acquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; andaircraft flight data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages ofthe present invention, reference should be had to the following detaileddescription, read in conjunction with the following drawings, whereinlike reference numerals denote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view displaying a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a QAR transfer of data through a wirelessnetwork to an EFB.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a process for transferring data from theQAR to the EFB.

FIG. 4 is a schematic of high level use for a preferred embodiment ofthe apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view displaying a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention which differs from that shown in FIG. 1 primarily inthat the QAR Board includes high level data encryption.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a QAR transfer of data through a wirelessnetwork to an EFB, and differs from FIG. 2 primarily in that the datacan be transmitted through an EFB or a telephone and is alreadyencrypted by the QAR before being transmitted.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a process for transferring data from theQAR to the EFB or telephone, and differs from FIG. 3 primarily in thatthe data can be transmitted through an EFB or a telephone and is alreadyencrypted by the QAR before being transmitted.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing how data is downloaded via wifi after theEFB is removed from an aircraft for a preferred embodiment of theapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a MFDAU transfer of data through awireless network to an EFB, and differs from FIG. 6 primarily in thatthe data can be transmitted through a MFDAU instead of a QAR.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a process for transferring data from theMFDAU to the EFB or telephone, and differs from FIG. 7 primarily in thatthe data can be transmitted through the MFDAU instead of the QAR.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view displaying an embodiment of the apparatusof the present invention. A preferred embodiment of the presentinvention includes an apparatus comprising a lithium battery, capacitor,or other power source; inputs for a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CV2R)Ethernet Feed, an Ethernet Vibration Feed, a Multi Function DataAcquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; a Universal Serial Bus (USB) 3.0Adapter to Hard Memory; a Quick Access Recorder (QAR) Board; at leastone slot for receiving a storage medium to record data collected from aCockpit Voice Recorder (CV2R) Ethernet Feed, an Ethernet Vibration Feed,a Multi Function Data. Acquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; and means oftransmission including wireless transmission. The apparatus furthercomprises a means for receiving power from an outside power source and adoor providing access to the slot. The wireless transmission ispreferably accomplished through a Wifi router with the IEEE 802.11acstandard. The inputs are preferably connected by an RJ145 ethernetconnection to a MFDAU. The storage medium is preferably a Secure Digital(SD) memory card. The means of transmission can be transferring multipleexternal component data to other storage means such as an EFB, acomputer, medical, or auxiliary equipment. In a preferred embodiment,the QAR preferably receives data from the CV2R Ethernet Feed, theEthernet Vibration Feed, and the MFDAU Data Feed. In a more preferredembodiment, the MFDAU preferably both sends and receives data to andfrom the CV2R Ethernet Feed, the Ethernet Vibration Feed, AirInc 429,and auxiliary inputs such as analog signaling devices The MFDAU feedpreferably includes airframe, engine, and component data via a directinterface to digital ARINC (including but not limited to ARINC 717 and429 data), serial (including but not limited to RS232, RS485) and analogdata streams as well as aircraft state data as provided by internal orexternal gyros and accelerometers. The collected data preferablyprovides detailed aircraft state, including pitch, roll, G forces,vertical speeds, detailed engine operating parameters (i.e., turbinespeeds, oil pressure & temperatures) and primary aircraft systemparameters (rotor speeds, transmission and gearbox oil pressures andtemperatures). Also preferably included in the data stream delivered tothe MFDAU or QAR is the state of caution and warning lights and theposition/state of significant system switches in the aircraft (i.e.,landing gear switch and gear position indicator lights). Detailed GPScomponent data streams are preferably included in the acquired data.Once received, the MFDAU or QAR board preferably directs a compositedata stream to the EFB and/or through the USB 3.0 Adapter to hardmemory. The composite data stream is preferably transmitted from theMFDAU or QAR to the EFB wirelessly. This preferred embodiment preferablyalso includes light indicators for the MFDAU QAR SD Card Write Statusand WiFi connection status as well as a button for opening and closing adoor. A preferred apparatus is a NORTH QAR-3W Quick Access Recorder orMFDAU with a means for wireless transmission of data, both of which canbe similar to NORTH QAR-3W Quick Access Recorder or MFDAU currentlycommercially available from North Flight Data Systems, LLC.

A MFDAU is a multi-function data acquisition unit. It typically includesat least the following: Digital and analog data receivers, an internalattitude and heading reference system, and other such electronic deviceswith which to acquire information from various devices. When used in thepresent invention, it preferably also includes a logic platform andoperating system that facilitates the acquisition of data, hostsfirmware and software to enable it to either direct the raw data or tomanage acquired data and to perform analyses of the data, manipulate thedata, encrypt the data, and classify the data as to type, origin, andprotocol for processing the data.

A QAR is a quick access recorder which includes an SD card slot, an SDcard in the slot, a cable to reach a data source, such as the MFDAU. Itis akin to a SD card reader for a computer. When used to transmit datain the present invention, it preferably also includes a wireless datarouter, wireless access point, solid state memory, and logic.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the QAR transfer of data through awireless network to an EFB. In a preferred embodiment, the QAR transmitsdata wirelessly to the EFB. In this transfer of data, an option is givenas to whether the data should be encrypted. If the encryption is optionis selected, the data is encrypted at a high level. The MFDAU of thepresent invention with wireless capability could be used in place of theQAR in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the process for transferring data from theQAR to the EFB. In the preferred embodiment, the QAR board attempts toand establishes a secure connection with the EFB wirelessly. The QAR mayalso seek auxiliary wireless signals to establish a secure connection.In preparation for receiving data, the EFB may create files toincorporate the transmitted data within. Once a secure connection hasbeen established, the QAR streams the data to the EFB. When the aircrafthas shut down, the QAR may switch to a backup/cap power and may send anend-of-file message prior to a backup power timer expiring. Once thedata is received from the QAR, the EFB may include means of distributingthe data, encrypting the data, or writing the data to the previouslycreated files. Once the data is written to files, the EFB may close thefiles and terminate the wireless connection with the QAR. In FIG. 3, onecould substitute a MFDAU of the present invention with wirelesscapability for the QAR.

FIG. 4 is a schematic of high level use for a preferred embodiment ofthe application of the present invention. A preferred embodiment of thepresent invention includes a system comprising a Cabin Tablet, a PilotTablet, vibration nodes, and a MFDAU. The system further comprises aWiFi Cabin antenna, a USB Hardened. Memory Module, and an Ethernetswitch. The system may be used pre-flight, during flight, or postflight. The cabin tablet is preferably connected to MFDAU, Pilot Tablet,and Vibration Nodes via the WiFi Cabin antenna. The Cabin tabletpreferably has access to patient charts, 12 Lead Data, and Pictures inthe pre-flight stage. The Cabin tablet preferably has access to textmessages, patient charts, data such as generated by Golden Hoursoftware, and 12 lead data during the inflight stage. The Cabin tabletpreferably has access to patient data, pictures, and data such asgenerated by Golden Hour software in the post flight stage. The dataaccessible to the cabin tablet is preferably accessed by a NFDS WebPortal Download. The Pilot tablet is preferably connected to MFDAU,Cabin tablet, and vibration nodes via the WiFi Cabin antenna. The Pilottablet preferably has access to flight plan and weight & balance data inthe pre-flight stage. The pilot tablet preferably has access to datacollection data and vibration data during the inflight stage. Duringboth the pre-flight and in flight stages, the pilot tablet maypreferably access a flight data stream. A mechanic or other individualmay access the historical and live data stream during the flight toperform maintenance or other sensor input viewing and/or analysis. Thepilot tablet preferably has access to data collection data and vibrationdata in the post flight stage. The data accessible to the pilot tabletis preferably accessed by a NFDS Web Portal Download. The pilot tabletpreferably includes maintenance functions such as SMART Config andSystem Config. These maintenance functions are preferably accessed whenin close proximity to a WiFi connection. The WiFi Cabin antennapreferably makes use of SubMiniature version A (SMA) connectors. The USBHardened Memory Module is preferably ED-155 and/or ED-112 crash andtemperature compliant. The Ethernet switch preferably uses RJ-45connectors to connect with the MFDAU and Pilot Tablet. The Ethernetswitch also preferably inputs multiple external component data to datastorage mediums such as secure digital memory cards. The MFDAUpreferably includes a Comm Board/Processors, transport communicationssystems inputs, an audio and video card, and means of gathering internaldata from sensors. The MFDAU may include a satellite connection such asa RS-232-Generic Satcom link. The Comm Board/Processors preferablyinclude a modem, a code divisional multiple access (CDMA), a hard drive,and the means for wireless transmission. The modem is preferably aniridium short data burst modem. The CDMA is preferably a light squaredCDMA 4G. The hard drive is preferably a solid state hard drive. Themeans of wireless transmission preferably includes use of the WiFi CabinAntenna. The Comm Board/Processors preferably includes means ofencrypting data from the audio and video card. The Comm Board/Processorsalso preferably includes means of converting acquired data intoAeronautical Radio, Incorporated (ARINC) 717. The MFDAU preferablyincludes inputs for: receiving internal data from sensors such as gyros,accelerometers, and magnetometers; pilot data; Co-pilot data; staticdata; auto pilot ARINC 429; FADECNEMD ARINC 429; Garmin global positionsystem (GPS) ARINC 429; FDR-ARINC 717; Intelistart-RS-485; XM WeatherRS-232; AC Tach Gen Inputs; 28× Digital; 32× low speed analog; 8× highspeed analog; Video In—BNC Connectors; Area Mic ED-155 44.1 kHz; ICS(Internet connection sharing); and SMA to L-Band. The MFDAU preferablyincludes outputs for: an A, V, D, R Annunciator; Composite ARINC 717out; and a USB hardened memory module. The MFDAU preferably includesoutputs and inputs for a High-Definition Multimedia Interfaceconnection, a touchscreen, RS-232 connection for a data stream output ora Generic Satcom Link; and Ethernet Switch.

The present invention includes methods and apparatus directed tocollecting internal and external analog and digital sensor data;analyzing the sensor data; and transmitting of said data to a portablestorage device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the method or apparatusincludes a process of collecting data. The data preferably includesinternal and external data that may further include data acquired froman analog or digital sensor. Sensor data also includes aircraft, state,component data, voice, video, and vibration information. The datarecording is preferably combined into a combined data stream. Thecombined data stream is preferably transferred to either a fixed orportable onboard storage device via wireless transmission. The combineddata stream preferably includes data from similar and dissimilar devices(i.e. aircraft data; video and still camera images such as jpeg, mpegformats; forward infra-red camera images, radioactive particle sensordata, medical device data).

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method or apparatusincludes a process of analyzing data. Analysis of such data may includeanalysis of aircraft sensor data in a virtual live basis in flight withFlight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA). The analysis may alsoinclude an analysis of aircraft sensor data with vibration software thatpreferably compares the composite data stream to either a predeterminedset of events criteria or historical data trends providing MaintenanceOperation Quality Assurance (MOQA) system or subsystem health.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method or apparatusincludes transmitting an alert with an exceedance message via a cellularor satellite data conduit after processing the sensor data analysis.This element differs from downloading raw aircraft data wirelessly inthat the sensor data has been processed prior to transmission.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method or apparatusincludes transmitting the aircraft sensor data to a crash hardeneddevice installed onboard the aircraft by wireless means.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method includescombining hardware and software into an apparatus that can be carried,wherein the apparatus wirelessly collects, encrypts, provides forcritical near real time processing, and packages data for off load to acorporate data infrastructure for long time processing and preservation.This embodiment of the invention may be further defined to include aprocess of removing a portable or quasi portable device that hasacquired data from onboard wireless devices from an aircraft thenacquiring a wired or wireless connection (to the internet or possibly acompany's/entity's intranet) and sending that composite data via thatwireless connection/conduit. A process of encrypting all collected dataand delivering either encrypted or non-encrypted data is a preferablepart of this process. The process of taking the composite data stream,breaking it up and sending it to either one or multiple locations orapplications which may or may not act independently. (i.e., sendaircraft data to FOQA app, medical data to hospital or doctor, videodata to video or motion picture platform, thermal images to lawenforcement entities, radioactive readings to an engineering firm). Thisprocess is meant to cover the acquisition of dissimilar data via onboardwireless and the administration and distribution of the data from aportable or quasi portable computer and/or electronic device whichcontains logic.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method and apparatusincludes an avionics data acquisition and recording system. Such systempreferably provides an ability to collect wired and wireless sensor dataand to deliver a composite data stream through a wireless router (suchas 802.11n or 802.1AC) to a portable or quasi portable device thatcontains logic. The preferred system function would be to have onedevice mounted in the aircraft that collects cockpit voice and videofrom a CV2R device, aircraft flight data (i.e., engine, airframe, andcomponent generated data); aircraft vibration data via airframe mountedsensors or other vibration acquisition components, and external devicesdata via wi-fi connection (i.e., heart monitor). Once the data iscollected by for example either a NORTH QAR-3W Quick Access Recorder orMFDAU, it preferably distributes/writes each primary data stream to anappropriate SD card within the QAR or MFDAU and combines all data sourceinformation and transmits it to a portable computer (i.e., EFB, tablet,semi fixed computer device, possibly in a permanently mounted dockingstation) via a wi-fi transmission.

When the system initially boots up the QAR-3W wifi or MDFAU wifipreferably looks for a receiving device. Each receiving devicepreferably has been programmed with the appropriate router address andWPA password. The NORTH software/app is preferably set to run when thedevice is powered up and when the EFB recognizes the QAR wifi or MFDAUwifi and opens a connection to write live stream of data to the EFBmemory. When this link is established a “Blue” LED on the QAR or MDFAUpreferably illuminates indicating a positive connection and the NORTHapp preferably places a “Blue Light” on the tray at the bottom of theEFB screen to preferably indicate positive connection. The QAR (when itis the wifi transmitter—otherwise the MFDAU detects this connection)preferably sends a “message” to the MFDAU which in turn sends amessage/flips a bit, which illuminates a light on the system A, V, D, Rannunciator (and may turn the letter Blue) to indicate to the pilot thatthe system is connected and recording via wifi to the EFB.

As the composite data stream is received, the NORTH app preferably takesthe data and applies 128 bit encryption as it writes the data to thecomputer's memory. The recorded data is preferably made available toother software programs the customer wishes to run. The NORTH apppreferably monitors the data stream and connection. If the connection islost, the NORTH app preferably tries to re-establish the connection. Ifthe wifi connection remains intact but the data ceases to flow, theNORTH app preferably initiates the shutdown and closing of files.

While the live data feed is being received by the EFB, a customer canpreferably run a live data analysis programs. This may include but notlimited to FOQA analysis, and vibration data analysis.

When the aircraft is shut down and power is removed from the NORTHFlight Data System, the battery and/or capacitors preferably providepower to perform the following function: the CV2R will preferablycontinue to run and power the video camera for one (1) minute. It willpreferably record/send data from all 6 channels of audio and one channelof video to: an internal CV2R compact flash memory; a QAR-3W for writingto the QAR “CV2R” SD card; and QAR WiFi router or MFDAU wifi router fortransmission to the EFB device. The MFDAU will preferably continue tosend any available sensor data to the QAR-3W for one (1) minute andcontinue to send power (POE) to the QAR for approximately 30 secondsafter cessation of data feed to facilitate the closing of the “MFDAU” SDcard data file. The QAR-3W will preferably receive its primary powerfrom the MFDAU via power of Ethernet (POE) and write any received datato the appropriate SD card and continue to transmit that composite datastream over the wifi router (unless the MFDAU has the wifi router) aslong as it receives that MFDAU power. Upon cessation of the MFDAU POEthe internal QAR-3W battery or capacitor will preferably provide powerfor the closing of files on all SD cards and preferably send anelectronic message to the EFB via wifi to close the files on the EFB(alternatively, the MFDAU sends this electronic message if it is makingwifi contact with the EFB). When the EFB returns a message that thefiles have been closed properly, the QAR (or MFDAU) will preferablyterminate the wifi connection and shutdown.

After the shutdown process is completed the NORTH EFB app willpreferably provide a written message to EFB to confirm a successfulshutdown or note an error has occurred. If the EFB loses power by eitherhaving ship's power removed from the “docking station” or other source,the NORTH app will preferably close the received data files under theEFB internal battery power. If the EFB or such device has sensed theinternal battery may not have sufficient power to continue operation(i.e., low battery alert), the NORTH app will preferably initiate theproper closing of files on the EFB.

If there is a data feed interruption for more than 1.5 seconds sensed bythe EFB (either by the lack of data or a break in the wifi connection),the NORTH app will preferably initiate the closing of previouslyreceived data files. If the wifi link is lost, the QAR-3w and/or theMFDAU and the EFB via the NORTH app will preferably try to re-establishthe link for a period of one (1) minute. When the wifi link is lost, theblue LED light on the QAR will preferably turn red and the annunciatorlight will either turn off or turn amber in color.

EFB/Tablet Collection and Processing:

An embodiment of the invention includes placing the computing device orEFB in the aircraft and allowing the computing device or EFB to operateon its own battery power (physical security of the device to bedetermined by aircraft pilot/operator).

Another embodiment of the invention includes mounting the computingdevice or EFB in the aircraft via a docking station which has beenpermanently affixed to the airframe.

Another embodiment of the invention includes a display being an integralpart of the computing device or EFB, which is considered “carry onequipment”.

Another embodiment of the invention includes a display for the computingdevice or EFB that can be considered “Loose carry on equipment” to besecured at the discretion of the pilot/operator.

When an aircraft is initially powered up, the recorder (QAR and/orMFDAU) preferably goes through a system check and the WiFi routerpreferably broadcasts a Service Set identifier (SSID) for an EFBreceiving device to “see”. If necessary the QAR preferably storesaccumulated data from the MFDAU, CV2R and Vibration acquisition unitsand “buffers” that data until the WiFi router is activated and can makea positive connection with the EFB. Upon establishing a positiveconnection to the EFB, the QAR (or MFDAU) preferably transmits allstored/buffered data and initiates the continuous flow of received data.If for some reason (regulatory or otherwise) the WiFi router must bedisabled (possibly during takeoff or approach/landing) the QAR and/orMFDAU will preferably store/buffer the collected data and uponreactivation of the WiFi router and/or connection the stored data willbe sent to the EFB by the QAR or MFDAU.

When an EFB is identified by the QAR router or MFDAU router, the EFB andQAR router or MFDAU router preferably conduct a security check via ashared security key encryption. When a positive connection is made, asignal is preferably sent to the QAR to illuminate the “Blue” WiFiconnection LED light on the QAR. Simultaneously, a signal will bepreferably sent to the optional panel mounted Annunciator to indicatepositive connection (this can be by either turning a segment light on;the segment light can be preferably illuminated in Blue and when aconnection is lost it can either turn off or alternatively turn amber).When the MFDAU is used for wifi connection to the EFB, then the bluewifi connection LED could be on the MFDAU.

Upon the acquisition of a positive WiFi connection, the EFB preferablycreates at least four (4) primary files (MFDAU, Voice, Video, andVibration) in which to store the received data. The EFB software willpreferably “listen” for auxiliary data streams (e.g., medical equipment,Wx radar data) and preferably will create a file to capture that data ifthe stream is present.

The EFB will preferably contain a governing application which drives thelogic for WiFi connection, security, file structure, and data processingincluding the option to apply high level encryption to a specified datastream. The application will preferably have a set up function that willstore security settings and customer driven options within nonvolatilememory. Alternatively, the encryption can be done by the MFDAU or QAR,whichever connects via wifi to the EFB.

When the data stream(s) are received by the EFB, the EFB will preferablyencrypt the data (if selected by the customer) prior to storing the datain the designated file. All encrypted files preferably includeindividual passwords associated with them to ensure that only authorizedusers can read that particular data.

During aircraft operation (based upon customer selections) a data streamcan be preferably accessed by other applications running on the same EFBwhich display, analyze and interact with customer commands (e.g., FOQA,Vibration Analysis, medical charting software).

When the flight is complete and the aircraft is shut down, the EFBapplication preferably closes the files.

FIGS. 5-10 show additional embodiments of the present invention.

NORTH QAR-3W Technical Specifications

The following identities the technical functions and dimensionalparameters that are desired to be achieved in the development of theNORTH-3W Quick Access Recorder Physical characteristics;

1. The QAR-3w and MFDAU should maintain the same “footprint” of theexisting QAR and MFDAU with flexibility as to the height of theenclosure,

a. preferably e.g. 5.0″W×4.5″ D×XXX″ H or 7.86″ W×7.09″ L as it relatesto the MFDAU.

2. QAR should maintain the existing access door design with anappropriate adjustment for a change in height.

3. Operating temperature range=preferably −40 to +70 degrees C.

4. Storage temperature range=preferably −40 to +85 degrees C.

5. Relative humidity preferably 10 to 90% non-conditioned.

Memory:

1. Imbedded SSD with overwrite (loop) capability;

2. SSD & SD Card capacity to hold preferably a minimum of 2 hours, morepreferably at least 4, even more preferably at least 6 hours, even morepreferably a minimum of 8 hours, even more preferably a minimum of 10,even more preferably a minimum of 12, and most preferably at least 24hours of encrypted video;3. SSD & SD Card capacity to hold preferably a minimum of 2 hours, morepreferably at least 4, even more preferably at least 6 hours, even morepreferably a minimum of 8 hours, even more preferably a minimum of 10,and even more preferably a minimum of 12, and most preferably at least24 hours of encrypted flight data;4. SSD & SD Card capacity to hold preferably a minimum of 2 hours, morepreferably at least 4, even more preferably at least 6 hours, even morepreferably a minimum of 8 hours, even more preferably a minimum of 10,and even more preferably a minimum of 12, and most preferably at least24 hours of encrypted vibration/HUMS data.Power:1. Normal QAR power should be supported via the existing power structurecoming from the MFDAU. This power connection will be used to:a. Power the QAR during normal operations;b. Recharge to internal QAR cap or battery.2. QAR or MFDAU back up/shutdown power should provide a minimum of forexample 1 minute 30 seconds of power to the QAR or MFDAU operatingsystem.3. Preferred internal power source is to be by means of either:a. Capacitor;b. Lithium battery containing under 25 g of lithium.Processing Capability:1. The QAR or MFDAU board should run on a standard Linux platform2. QAR or MFDAU Board should be capable of processing a minimum flowneeded to handle the aggregate flow from all input sources, including:

a. 3 Mbit/s data from the MFDAU;

b. 8 hours of recordings from the CV2R;

c. 10 Mbit/s data from the vibration inputs;

d. 3 Mbit/s data and messages from the medical or auxiliary computersources (up to for example at least 3 auxiliary devices).

3. QAR or MFDAU Board should be able to apply a continuous high levelencryption of all data streams.

4. QAR or MFDAU Board should be capable of maintaining the sorting ofindividual data streams so they may be easily separated from thecomposite data stream.

5. QAR or MFDAU Board should have the capability to accept and executenew firmware changes received through the 802.11 wireless connectionfrom an external device (this could include that update being receivedfrom a satellite communications (satcom) input).6. The QAR or MFDAU Board should have the ability to sense brief wifiinterruptions, identify where the break was in the consolidated datastream and be able to reestablish connectivity with the EFB and resumedata transmission at the point of interruption (i.e., go back in SSDmemory and retransmit data).7. The QAR-3W should maintain the existing shutdown logic using thebutton located between SD Cards. I.e., door open initiates SD Card closefiles shutdown process. There could be a different methodology forshutdown of wifi and EFB stream in cases where the door may be opened bymistake or even on purpose where a customer wants to retrieve the SDCard data early but valuable data is still being received via wifi frommedical or other external devices that should continue to record on theEFB. Such a methodology could include logic from the internal systemcomputing platform that will continue to direct live data inputs to theEFB until such time that total power to the system has been removed andthe EFB has received instructions to perform the file closing protocols.Wi-Fi1. The wifi chip set should be 802.11n or better with a throughput rateof at least 22 Mbit/s.2. The wifi capability should be capable of being upgraded to 802.11acwithout a change to firmware.3. The wifi chip should employ a WPA security routine.4. The wifi feature should be able to connect to numerous externaldevices (e.g., a maximum of 5) with differing passwords.5. The wifi feature should be capable of communicating with the QAR“Connect” blue light indicating positive connection to an approveddevice (EFB).

The wifi and encryption can be anywhere on aircraft. Preferably, thewifi capability and encryption can be in either the QCR (quickcommunications recorder) or the MFDAU.

The logic platform can reside in the MFDAU as shown in FIG. 4, or QAR asshown in FIG. 1. Encryption can take place, for example, in the MFDAU,QAR, or in EFB as shown in FIG. 2, or in a smart phone.

The present invention contemplates moving more data than just what hasbeen heretofore stored on an SD card in a MFDAU, CV2R, and/or vibrationmonitoring device. The additional data can include for example, medicaldata, and weather data.

The present invention includes an apparatus (such as an EFB) comprising:

means for receiving data;

means for recording data;

at least one of a Quick Access Recorder (QAR) Board and a Multi FunctionData Acquisition Unit (MFDAU);

and a means of autonomous transmission of data from the QAR board or theMFDAU to a removable device in an aircraft which can retransmit the dataautonomously when removed from the aircraft, wherein the data comprises:

data acquired from a Cockpit Voice and Video Recorder (CV2R) Ethernetfeed;

data from a Multi Function Data Acquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; andaircraft flight data. By autonomously is meant that the data istransmitted automatically by the apparatus, as indicated in the flowcharts in FIGS. 7 and 8, using software on the apparatus, and withouthuman intervention as indicated in the flow charts in FIGS. 7 and 8 andas described herein with relation to the NORTH software/app.

The following is a listing of acronyms or abbreviations and their fullnames or descriptions.

Acronym or abbreviation Full name or description 4G 4^(th) Generation 8x8 times 28x 28 times 32x 32 times AC Tach Gen Inputs An instrument thatmeasures the rotational rate of a shaft using an internally generatedelectrical signal. App Software application Area Mic ED-155 A microphonethat captures a broad range of ambient sound ARINC Aeronautical Radio,Incorporated ARINC 429 Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated data protocol429. ARINC 717 Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated data protocol 717. Autopilot a system used to control the trajectory of a vehicle withoutconstant ‘hands-on’ control by a human operator being required. A, V, D,R a panel mounted indicator that indicated the status Annunciator of the“A”—audio, “V”—video, “D”—data, “R”—recording functions of the system.BNC Connectors The BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connector is aminiature quick connect/disconnect radio frequency connector used forcoaxial cable. C Celsius Cat-5 Category 5 cable (Cat 5) is a twistedpair cable for carrying signals. CDMA code divisional multiple accessComm Board A PCB (printed circuit board), with a CPU (central processingunit), short and long term memory, and expansion buses, designed toprocess and facilitate both wired and wireless digital communications.Composite ARINC Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated Composite data 717protocol 717 Config. Configuration CV2R Cockpit Voice and Video RecorderED-112 European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment standard 112ED-155 European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment standard 155.EFB electronic flight bag FAA Federal Aviation Administration FADEC/VEMDFull authority digital engine (or electronics) control/ Vehicle & EngineMonitoring and Display FDR-ARINC 717 Flight data recorder-AeronauticalRadio, Incorporated Composite data protocol 717. FOQA Flight OperationalQuality Assurance g gram Garmin Garmin brand of avionic devices. G forcegravitational force GPS global position system Gyros gyroscope HUMSHealth and usage monitoring systems ICS internet connection sharing IEEEInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Intellstart-RS-485Recommended Standard 485 for serial communications with automatic start.IR infra-red JPEG Joint Photographic Experts Group (a file format forphotos) kbps kilobits per second kHz 1000 Hertz L-Band L band refers tofour long different bands of the electromagnetic spectrum: 40 to 60 GHz(NATO), 1 to 2 GHz (IEEE), 1565 nm to 1625 nm (optical), and around 3.5micrometers (infrared astronomy). LED light emitting diode live Real, ornear real, time. mbps megabits per second MFDAU Multi Function DataAcquisition Unit MPEG Motion Picture Experts Group (a file format forvideos) NFDS North Flight Data Systems, LLC No. Number NORTH See pg. 9,line 13 North Flight Data Systems, LLC POE Power Over Ethernet QAR QuickAccess Recorder QAR-3W North Quick Access Recorder model 3W QCR QuickCommunications Recorder RJ-45 a connector used for modem connectionsRS-232 Recommended Standard number 232 for serial communications. RS-485Recommended Standard number 485 for serial communications. SatcomSatellite Commmications SD Secure Digital SMA SubMiniature version ASMART Config A software app named Safety Matrix And Reporting Thresholdwhich compares a set of customer defined parameter limits and initialtesa textural message to broadcast via a communications link to thecustomer. SSD Solid State Drive SSID Service Set Identifier SystemConfig System Configuration USB Universal Serial Bus Video In - BNC TheBNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connector is Connectors a miniature quickconnect/disconnect radio frequency connector used for coaxial cable.WiFi a local area wireless technology that allows an electronic deviceto exchange data or connect to the internet using 2.4 GHz UHF and 5 GHzSHF radio waves based on the institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers' (IEEE) 802.11 standards WPA WIFI Protected Access, Wx WeatherXM Weather Subscription, Weather Service (see RS-232 above) RS-232

All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature andpressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. Allmaterials used or intended to be used in a human being arebiocompatible, unless indicated otherwise.

The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; thescope of the present invention is to be limited only by the followingclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a) means forreceiving data; b) means for recording data; c) at least one of a QuickAccess Recorder (QAR) Board and a Multi Function Data Acquisition Unit(MFDAU); d) and a means of autonomous transmission of data from the QARboard or the MFDAU to a removable device in an aircraft whichretransmits the data autonomously when removed from the aircraft,wherein the data comprises: data acquired from a Cockpit Voice and VideoRecorder (CV2R) Ethernet feed; data from a Multi Function DataAcquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; and aircraft flight data.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the means of transmission is wirelesstransmission.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the wirelesstransmission is accomplished through a wireless router with the IEEE802.11ac standard.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the wirelessrouter provides access for between the QAR or MFDAU and an electronicflight bag (EFB), portable computer, and/or smart phone.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 4, wherein the QAR or MFDAU transmits a compositedata stream of multiple external component data through the wirelessrouter and to an EFB or portable computer.
 6. A method of autonomouslytransmitting Quick Access Recorder (QAR) or Multi Function DataAcquisition Unit (MFDAU) data from an aircraft, comprising: autonomouslytransmitting the QAR or MFDAU data to a portable electronic device whicha crew member brings with him onto the aircraft and which will leave theaircraft with the crew member when he leaves the aircraft; autonomouslytransmitting the QAR or MFDAU data from the portable electronic devicewhen the electronic device is off of the aircraft and connects to anetwork, wherein the data comprises: data acquired from a Cockpit Voiceand Video Recorder (CV2R) Ethernet feed; data from a Multi Function DataAcquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; and aircraft flight data.
 7. Themethod of claim 6, wherein the data is wirelessly transmitted to theportable electronic device in the aircraft.
 8. The method of claim 6,wherein the data is encrypted before transmission to the portableelectronic device.
 9. The method of claim 6, wherein the portableelectronic device has software that analyzes the data and can sendmessages to remote locations or simply let those in the aircraft knowthat there is an issue.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the softwaredetects some issues that normal flight equipment does not.
 11. Themethod of claim 6, wherein the data is transmitted substantiallycontinuously while the portable electronic device is in the aircraft.12. The method of claim 6, wherein the data is transmitted substantiallycontinuously while the aircraft is in flight or taxiing.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 1, for use in an aircraft, wherein the means forreceiving data receives data from one or more sensors in the aircraft.14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for receiving dataincludes inputs, and the means for recording data includes a slot, andfurther comprising: a) a battery; b) a Universal Serial Bus (USB)Adapter to Hard Memory; c) a means for receiving power from an outsidepower source; and d) a door providing access to the slot.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for receiving data includesinputs, and wherein the inputs receive data from at least one of thefollowing: a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CV2R) Ethernet Feed, an EthernetVibration Feed, a QAR, and a Multi Function Data Acquisition Unit(MFDAU) Data Feed.
 16. A method of automatically transmitting QAR datafrom an aircraft, comprising: automatically transmitting the QAR data toa portable electronic device which a crew member brings with him ontothe aircraft and which will leave the aircraft with the crew member whenhe leaves the aircraft; and wherein the portable electronic device hassoftware that analyzes the data and sends messages to remote locations,wherein the data is encrypted before transmission to the portableelectronic device.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the data iswirelessly transmitted to the portable electronic device in theaircraft.
 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the data is encryptedbefore transmission to the removable device.
 19. A method ofautomatically transmitting QAR data from an aircraft, comprising:automatically transmitting the QAR data to a portable electronic devicewhich a crew member brings with him onto the aircraft and which willleave the aircraft with the crew member when he leaves the aircraft,wherein the portable electronic device has software that analyzes thedata and lets those in the aircraft know that there is an issue, whereinthe data is encrypted before transmission to the portable electronicdevice.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the software detects someissues that normal flight equipment does not.
 21. The method of claim16, wherein the data is transmitted substantially continuously while theportable electronic device is in the aircraft.
 22. The method of claim16, wherein the data is transmitted substantially continuously while theaircraft is in flight or taxiing.
 23. A system for monitoring andreporting operation of an aircraft, comprising: at least one of a quickaccess recorder and a multifunction data acquisition unit operablyconfigured to substantially continuously receive and store data from aplurality of data feeds; a portable electronic device operablyconfigured to autonomously connect to and receive data stored on thequick access recorder or multifunction data acquisition unit; whereinthe portable electronic device stores the data; and wherein the portableelectronic device autonomously transmits the data stored on the portableelectronic device to a destination after the connection between theportable electronic device and the quick access recorder ormultifunction data acquisition unit is terminated and the portableelectronic device acquires a connection to a network, wherein theportable electronic device autonomously transmits the data to adestination after the portable electronic device has been removed fromthe aircraft, wherein the data comprises: data acquired from a CockpitVoice and Video Recorder (CV2R) Ethernet feed; data from a MultiFunction Data Acquisition Unit (MFDAU) Data Feed; and aircraft flightdata.
 24. The system of claim 23, wherein the data is encrypted beforetransmission to the portable electronic device.